2016 hasn’t been a vintage year for rock and metal. But US quartet Eerie has delivered a very pleasant and unheralded surprise. Featuring members of Witch, Draugar, Futur Skullz, and Pins of Light, their self-titled début (Tee Pee Records) Eerie has created an addictively enjoyable record with almost no hype or fanfare.

Although described as a “Black’N’Roll” style band, Eerie is more like a mix of rough around the edges doom, 70s prog, and a streak of Led Zeppelin-style rock. Although only five tracks long, most are approaching the ten minute mark and each packed to the rafters with doomy riffs and free-wheeling solos.

Opener ‘Hideous Serpent’ pulls no punches, diving straight into seven minutes of classically evil heavy metal. Vocalist Shane Baker could pass for Trouble’s Eric Wagner at times, while guitarist Tim Lehi sounds like he studied with the likes of Jimmy Page and Wino. The terrifying and powerful rhythm of ‘Yeti segues into a bass heavy jam before devolving on a swarm of squealing solos. ‘Master of Creation’ a slower burner, building to a satisfying crescendo lead by Moses Saarni chaotic drumwork.

The retro but muddy production means the album does at times feel like one long jam, with songs often blending into one another. But their style is so satisfying that it’s no bad thing. With Eerie’s debut, there’s very little not to like. It’s got the charm of a 70s record, the heaviness of a doom record, and the song writing that means you can play it on repeat. Epic.

9.0/10

DAN SWINHOE